Patents Issued in February 23, 2006
  • Publication number: 20060037121
    Abstract: A ballistic panel is provided for being incorporated into a lightweight soft body-armor product adapted for covering an area of the body. The ballistic panel includes an assembly of woven fabric plies with warp and fill yarns formed of bundled Poly (p-phenylene-2,6-benzobisoxazole) fibers. The plies have a collective areal density of no greater than 1.0 pounds per square foot, and a V50 ballistic limit of no less than 1925 feet per second using a .22 caliber, 17 grain FSP at 0 degrees obliquity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Andrew Park
  • Publication number: 20060037122
    Abstract: The Visor Hinged Lens System (VHLS) is an optical accessory that is made of conventional materials, such as plastic, metal, wood, glass, and the like, consisting of an apparatus that is affixed to the visor or brim of a hat or some other headgear, that enables the user to shield his or her eyes; and with a simple adjustment, involving a hinged mechanism, the apparatus can be pushed forward, allowing the user to have unobstructed vision. The VHLS is a unique combination of eyewear that is connected to an article of headwear, in a temporary or a permanent fashion, allowing the user to flip the eye-protecting portion of the apparatus out of the field of vision using a hinged axis, while allowing the same apparatus to be returned to its original position with an opposing motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Michael McEvily
  • Publication number: 20060037123
    Abstract: The clothing of the present invention is held together at a single point of closure, at a single main point of closure, or at several points of closure by a locking device or devices in such a way that unlocking the locking device(s) renders the garment removable from the wearer's body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Alison Green
  • Publication number: 20060037124
    Abstract: A papilla gown includes a cloth web that is adapted to cover the body of a patient, a hole provided on the cloth web communicating the inside of the cloth web with the outside of the cloth web, a containing portion attached to the cloth web, a cover portion that is provided on the outside of the cloth web and covers the hole, and a fastener that fastens the cover portion to the outside of the cloth web. The hole has an elongated shape. The cover portion is an elongated strip that is pivotally attached to the outside of the cloth web. The elongated strip is attached to the cloth web longitudinally, and the hole, the containing portion and the cover portion are positioned toward the left side or the right side of the cloth web. The fastener includes Velcro strips.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Ho Soon Cho, Jaeeun Paek
  • Publication number: 20060037125
    Abstract: A Quick and easy attachment system for linking a light weight headgear and a binocular for steady hands free viewing without fatigue. The headgear functions as an attractive hat or cap with visor and is comfortable for continuous use with or without the binocular attached. The attaching system offers multiple embodiments, functions and adjustments for differing conditions and wearers. Options include, flip up or fixed visor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Anthony McDowell
  • Publication number: 20060037126
    Abstract: To accomplish the task of removing foul air, the malodor ventilation apparatus has attachment members such as suction cups or a hook for easy installation in different locations. The apparatus has an inlet port for the intake of objectionable air and an outlet port to expel scented refreshed air. Air is drawn into the inlet port by a motorized fan that creates a pressure differential. The objectionable air is drawn through a porous filter. The porous filter is scented by several drops of a liquid scent. This scent is volatized into the malodorous air, changing the air into a pleasing aroma. The scented air is expelled and dissipated through an outlet port of the apparatus. Alternately, the apparatus can comprise a vent duct coupled to exhaust air from the outlet port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Joseph Hippensteel
  • Publication number: 20060037127
    Abstract: The present invention provides a ventilated toilet system with a fan that continuously extracts waste air from the toilet bowl when the toilet is being used. An air passage leads from the toilet bowl to the fan, and the fan pushes the extracted air down another air passage to the toilet's water discharge path. The fan can be manually operated or can be activated by a sensor that detects the presence of a person. To ease installation, the air passages can be formed integrally with the toilet bowl. A check valve, in some embodiments, prevents the back flow of odors from a sewer line. The fan, its power source, and its controller, can be made into a modular unit made to fit any of a number of toilet fixtures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Jack Chen
  • Publication number: 20060037128
    Abstract: A wall mounted urinal has a detachable urinal insert where the insert provides a frontally directed opening for receiving a urine stream. The insert provides a lower surface in contact with the bottom surface of the urinal for supporting the insert, and an upper surface or a rear surface, or both, for stabilizing the insert within the urinal. A splash capturing surface defines an aperture for admitting a urine stream, the aperture comprising an area inferior to that of the frontally directed opening of the urinal and extending outwardly from it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Michael Lewis, Patrick Sullivan, Jo Smith
  • Publication number: 20060037129
    Abstract: This is an attachment for the common toilets or commodes, which serves the function of a bidet. The main innovation is the simplicity of the invention and combination of various features to provide an easy and maintenance free installation. The attachment consists of a water spray nozzle held by a bracket in the rear of the toilet bowl, and connected to the existing water supply line for the flush tank. The connection to the existing water supply is via a flexible hose with a manual control and shut-off valve, and a backflow preventor. The water spray nozzle is fixed, and it is suitably located above the rim of the toilet bowl, such that it does not get easily contaminated and it provides a spray accurately without any moving parts. A working proto-type of this invention has been installed and proven that it works very effectively as a bidet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Vikram Bhatnagar
  • Publication number: 20060037130
    Abstract: A mobile equipment service device for use by non-ambulatory persons. The device can be a manually movable commode for permitting such persons to independently access a system to contain waste, seal the waste, prevent odors for emanating into the room, and permit later removal and disposal of the waste. The system may also introduce an odor absorbent material into the sealed area where the waste is retained. In a further embodiment, a programmable device, such as a commode, can be remotely operated by the person, increasing the person's ability to independently access and use the device by moving the device to and from that person, and then securing that device to permit safe use by those persons. Preferably, the programmable device is battery powered so as to be self-propelled. In addition, the device contains a data collection system that collects data on use, and transmits that data as directed to location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Margaret Graham
  • Publication number: 20060037131
    Abstract: A collapsible portable toilet includes a chair frame including a built-in foldable seat with a hole, a seat back, four legs and two front wheels, a disposable absorbent fragrant flexible refuse bag extending through the hole in the seat and draped around an outer perimeter of the seat, the refuse bag attached to an underside of the seat, a roof support frame comprising parallel telescoping vertical rods extending from a rear of the seat and attached to the seat back, a roof comprising parallel rods connected to a top of the roof support frame at a pivot point, the roof rotatable at the pivot point to and from a stored position. A bag removably attached to a top of the roof having curtain material to be draped around the roof support frame and roof for privacy, the curtain material having reflectors on an outside and in inside pockets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Jessica Payne
  • Publication number: 20060037132
    Abstract: The present invention provides a piping system for delivering water and air to the interior portion of a spa, hot tub, whirlpool, or the like and includes a plurality of water/air jet receptacles configured to receive a plurality of water/air jets and a plurality of sections of curved, rigid pipe disposed between and connecting the plurality of water/air jet receptacles, wherein the plurality of water/air jet receptacles and the plurality of sections of curved, rigid pipe are substantially assembled together prior to being installed in the spa, hot tub, whirlpool, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Breck Ferguson
  • Publication number: 20060037133
    Abstract: A corner mounted tray, atop the upper surfaces of shower bath walls, is triangular in shape, comprises a perforated bottom surface, upstanding sidewalls and angled front wall and is releasably attached to a vertical wall by screws. The tray is supported on top of the walls in the corner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Syed Rizvi
  • Publication number: 20060037134
    Abstract: Our invention uses current products in a new and unique way. We propose using NASCAR technology in the home, specifically using resized and redesigned windshield tear off sheets to cover shower doors to prevent the build up of soap scum or other shower residue. It is a labor saving technique, eliminating the requirement to periodically clean the shower door. Instead at the end of the month, or as necessary, the top “Shower Shield” is simply pulled off and thrown away.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Lynward Johnson, Shelton Caulder
  • Publication number: 20060037135
    Abstract: A modular headboard for a bedstead includes an upper headboard section and a lower headboard section selectively coupled together for convenient storage and transportation. The upper headboard section includes laterally-spaced, vertically-extending upper post sections and a headboard panel extending therebetween. The lower headboard section includes corresponding lower post sections, with cross rails extending between the lower post sections. A laterally-extending slat overlaps adjacent edges of the upper and lower headboard sections to facilitate alignment of the upper and lower headboard sections, and is secured to the headboard sections to form a stable headboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Applicant: American Signature, Inc.
    Inventor: Tony Yang
  • Publication number: 20060037136
    Abstract: A system for visually identifying a patient transfer device, and distinguishing the patient transfer device from other patient transfer devices in a set of transfer devices is provided. The transfer device includes an inflatable mattress. The system comprises a plurality of identifier elements arranged about the mattress and adapted to present a unified appearance. The appearance of the identifier elements substantially distinct from that of the mattress such that the eye of a viewer is automatically drawn to the identifier elements. The identifier elements may include a plurality of side pull straps adapted for sliding the mattress along an underlying surface. According to one embodiment, the identifier elements include tabs to which fasteners are mounted for releasably attaching an accessory to the mattress.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Robert Weedling, James Weedling
  • Publication number: 20060037137
    Abstract: A frame structure for a foldable children play-yard adaptable to include a curve side rail to form at least a portion of its upper perimeter. The frame structure comprises a plurality of support members, an upper frame member and a lower frame member. The upper frame member is constructed of a plurality of side segments, which define the upper perimeter of the play-yard and comprise rail members, which can include a curve portion. The rail members are coupled in a rotatable relationship disposed between the adjacent support members. The side segments have opposite distal end portions in engagement with support brackets mounted on the support members, the support brackets are adaptable to affix the side segment when the play-yard is in the open configuration and to permit the side segments to move in more than a single degree of freedom (for example, translational, axial-rotational movement and swivel movements) when the play-yard is being folded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Zhenghuan Song
  • Publication number: 20060037138
    Abstract: The invention concerns a mattress spring structure that includes multiple spring assemblies. Each spring assembly comprises an array of open-ended spring coils. The spring assemblies are arranged in superimposed relationship with the individual spring coils of the respective assemblies registering in vertical alignment with one another. A membrane extends between each pair of superimposed assemblies and the assemblies are connected to one another to form a unitary structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Graham Colman
  • Publication number: 20060037139
    Abstract: A combined fabric wrap and carry bag is disclosed. The combined fabric wrap and carry bag includes a first piece of fabric and a second piece of fabric affixed to the first piece of fabric to form a first pocket. In a first configuration, the second piece of fabric inverts inside-out relative to the first piece of fabric to form with a portion of the first piece of fabric a carry bag into which a remainder of the first piece of fabric may be inserted. In a second configuration, the first piece of fabric may be spread out on a supporting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Benjamin Akkad
  • Publication number: 20060037140
    Abstract: A bed rail for mounting to the side of a bed includes a pair of support legs and an entrapment-resistant side panel. The side panel includes a rigid frame enclosed within a flexible bed rail cover. The frame is generally rectangular in shape, having upper, intermediate, and lower horizontal rods, spanning first and second vertical shafts. The intermediate rod is preferably attached to the bed rail covering by means of a sheath, and located so as to restrain outward lateral excursions of said bed rail covering in the region between the lower and upper rods. The lowermost ends of the vertical shafts are pivotally connected to outer ends of the support legs. The support legs have inner ends installed between the mattress and the box spring. Anchor straps extend between the outer ends of the support legs and an anchor plate on the other side of the bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Lorne Clute
  • Publication number: 20060037141
    Abstract: A direct data and power interface is provided to the patient support platform of a therapeutic bed that allows for a complete rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. In one embodiment, a data and/or power cable is housed within a chain-like cable carrier that is disposed within an annular channel attached to the patient support platform. In another embodiment, a flexible ribbon cable is disposed within the annular channel. The cable carrier or ribbon cable is long enough to allow a full 360 degrees of rotation of the patient support platform in either direction from 0 degrees supine flat while maintaining a direct data or power connection. To ensure that data and power connection is not articulated beyond its physical limit as a result of manually rotating the bed in the emergency backup mode, a mechanical stop is provided to limit rotation of the patient support platform to about 730 degrees. Sensors are provided to detect activation of the mechanical stop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Wladyslaw Krywiczanin, Christopher Niederkrom
  • Publication number: 20060037142
    Abstract: A support for supporting at least a part of the human body is provided. In some embodiments, the support may include a support body having a first resistance to deformation and at least one buoyancy cushion having a second resistance to deformation, wherein said buoyancy cushion is substantially disposed at least partially within said support body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Patricia Binder
  • Publication number: 20060037143
    Abstract: Mediation sitting cushions and mats allow the user to meditate in comfort for great lengths of time, avoiding stress and pain often caused by traditional meditation cushions and mats. The layered mediation sitting cushions and mats combine a slow recovery visco-elastic foam (“VEF”), having load deformation properties and densities, with one or more base layers of a batting support. The sitting cushions and mats enable a person seated in traditional meditation positions to achieve a comfortable posture, regardless of the meditator's size or weight. The sitting cushions and mats also allow people to meditate in traditional cross-legged or kneeling postures comfortably, without irritation or pain. The mediation sitting cushions and mats also maintain of the pelvis in a neutral or slightly anterior position, resulting in proper alignment of the pelvis and spine, which minimizes the muscular and ligamentous strain caused by sitting in stillness for long periods of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Ronald Green
  • Publication number: 20060037144
    Abstract: An airbed with an integral sleeve. After deflation of the airbed, the airbed is rolled or folded into a tight formation, and the sleeve is extended around the airbed for storage. The sleeve may be a flat fabric material that is attached to a seam of the airbed, for example by welding. The sleeve includes drawstrings or cords for tying and tightening the sleeve around the airbed. A handle may also be provided for carrying the stored airbed once the sleeve is in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Applicant: The Coleman Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Jordan Rockstad
  • Publication number: 20060037145
    Abstract: A self-inflating mattress has a hollow body, an inflating valve, a deflating valve, a unidirectional valve and a foam material. The body has at least two chambers respectively serving as a primary chamber with a supporting chamber and a secondary chamber. The inflating and deflating valves are mounted on the body and communicate respectively with the primary and secondary chambers. The unidirectional valve is mounted on the supporting chamber, communicates with the supporting and secondary chambers and only allows air to flow from the primary chamber to the secondary chamber when open. The foam material is mounted in the primary chamber. The operation of the inflation/deflation of the primary and secondary chambers is implemented without an air pump and is convenient. Furthermore, the supporting chamber provides convenience for tightly fitting of the unidirectional valve without any leakage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Cheng-Chung Wang
  • Publication number: 20060037146
    Abstract: A cushion or bed which relieves tension in the muscles. The cushion or bed includes a frame on which a support pad unit is mounted. The support pad unit includes a plurality of support pads. The support pads can be grouped into first and second support pads. The first support pads are movable in the vertical or z direction relative to the plane formed by the plurality of support pads and the second support pads are immovable. Massaging modules, such as percussion cylinders can be provided in the support pad to provide massaging motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Soon Teck Heng
  • Publication number: 20060037147
    Abstract: A combined nut area cleaner and nut driver tool for manipulating nuts residing in recesses prone to filling with environmental debris. The tool having a body connecting with or forming a handle, a nut (or fastener) driver for connecting with the body and for driving the nut, and a cleaning flange for connecting to the body, this cleaning flange for cleaning the area adjacent the nut before the nut driver engages the nut. Preferably either the nut driver and/or the cleaning flange are able to be retracted in relation to the cleaning flange and/or nut driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Henry Redford
  • Publication number: 20060037148
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for removing horn substances from animal skin. Said method is characterised in that animal skins are treated in an aqueous bath containing between 0.05 and 5 wt. %—in relation to the weight of the salt—of at least one compound of general formula I or the corresponding alkali metallic salts or alkaline-earth metallic salts thereof or ammonium or phosphonium salts, the variables having the following definitions: R1 is selected from hydrogen or C1-C12 alkyl, unsubstituted or substituted by at least one S—H group or one O—H group; X1 to X4 are the same or different and selected from hydrogen, C1-C4 alkyl, O—H, S—H or N—HR2; and R2 represents hydrogen or C1-C12 alkyl or a C1-C4-alkyl-C?O group, at least one X1 to X4 representing S—H. If R1 contains neither O—H nor S—H, at least one other X1 to X4 is selected from S—H, OH or NH—R2. Said aqueous bath also comprises at least one compound which catalyses the hydrolysis of peptide compounds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Hans-George Lemaire, Tilman Taeger, Gunther Pabst, Philippe Lamalle, Michael Breuer, Burkhard Kroger, Thomas Subkowski
  • Publication number: 20060037149
    Abstract: Specific extraction of the oligomers from cotton fibers can be: achieved by a 24-hr incubation at 37° C. with trypsin, chymotrypsin, proteinase K or pepsin, followed by a second 24-hr incubation at 37° C. with cellulase (Trichoderma reesei) or ?-glucosidase. Alternatively, samples were first subjected to cellulase or ?-glucosidase treatment followed by the protease. The residual material is then treated with 0.5N HCI at 100° C. and the extracts analyzed. Fibers treated with cellulase: followed by protease disintegrated and appeared as a cloudy solution, while the fibers treated with protease followed by cellulase retained their structural identity. This analysis reveals striking differences between cotton fibers from different varieties with respect to their susceptibility to enzymatic degradation. This protocol can be used to identify biochemical characteristics, which can then be correlated with genetic markers for advances in plant breeding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Allen Murray
  • Publication number: 20060037150
    Abstract: The present application relates to the treatment of textiles to impart wrinkle resistance and softness while maintaining the natural hydrophilicity of the substrate. In one embodiment, it relates to the treatment of linear polymers, yarns, fibers, webs, mesches, fabrics and other fibrous substrates to provide a textile finish that resists wrinkles and remains soft to the touch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: David Offord, Cheng Hu
  • Publication number: 20060037151
    Abstract: A subject-matter of the present patent application is the use, as direct dye in dyeing compositions for keratinous fibres, in particular human keratinous fibres, such as the hair, or for the manufacture of such compositions, of a specific polycationic compound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Alain Lagrange
  • Publication number: 20060037152
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are compounds of formulae (I) and (II) below, and also to processes for the synthesis thereof: Also disclosed herein are dye compositions comprising said compounds, as cationic direct dyes, and methods for dyeing keratin fibers, for example, human keratin fibers, using these compositions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Andrew Greaves, Berangere Baril
  • Publication number: 20060037153
    Abstract: The invention provides an oxidation haircolor system comprising a dye phase and a developer phase, wherein the dye phase includes: a) a water soluble nonionic surfactant; b) a water soluble anionic polymer; c) water; d) oxidation dye intermediates; e) dye antioxidants and stabilizers; and the developer phase comprises: a) a secondary ethoxylated fatty alcohols or b) an alkyl phenol ethoxylates or c) a combination of the two types of surfactants d) an oxidizer; and e) water
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Jack Massoni
  • Publication number: 20060037154
    Abstract: A novel textile fabric comprised of pile-like yarns in which individual component yarns, at least one of which is texturized, comprising individual pile-like yarns have different shrinkage characteristics, and a method for making and patterning such fabrics. Upon the application of a shrinkage agent (e.g., heated air streams), either uniformly or selectively to the pile surface, the individual component yarns shrink to different degrees. By shrinking the relatively high shrinkage component yarns more than the adjacent relatively low shrinkage component yarns, the visual exposure of the relatively low shrinkage yarns is increased, and the visual contribution of the aesthetic qualities (e.g., color, light reflectivity, etc.) of such low shrinkage yarns is enhanced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Andre Goineau, Howard Willauer, Michael Keller
  • Publication number: 20060037155
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a transit boarding platform panel for use along an edge of a transit platform adjacent a track. The panel comprises a molded base portion formed from a reinforced composite polymer, and having a top deck and bottom plate, a first side intended to be adjacent a track at an edge of the transit platform, a second side opposite said first side and intended to be adjacent the transit platform, a first end and a second end, and between the top deck and bottom plate a series of internal support members. The top deck has a detectable warning surface consisting of raised truncated domes detectable by the visually impaired in accordance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities. The first and second ends are provided with means to interconnect adjacent panels and to secure the panels to the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Applicant: Astra Capital Incorporated
    Inventor: Kenneth Szekely
  • Publication number: 20060037156
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for cleaning the surfaces of a container with an interior portion, for example a vase or bottle. The present invention is a magnetic apparatus and method that includes a major unit and a minor unit that are magnetically coupled. The magnetic cleaning apparatus cleans the surfaces of a container as it is moved in conjunction (maintaining a magnetic connection) along the inside and outside surfaces of the container. The cleaning apparatus efficiently and effectively cleans the residue that builds up on the surfaces of a container, but also provides entertainment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Chad VanHulzen
  • Publication number: 20060037157
    Abstract: A toothbrush for the use of fingers to brush the teeth of infants or young children. While fingers work better than the traditional stick-type toothbrush in maneuvering around inside the mouth, the lack of vibrating/rotating in the bristle portion greatly diminished the flexibility of human fingers. Present invention provides the small-scale motion needed to rotate or otherwise move the bristle piece connected, by a flexible yet rigid cord, to a driving means, so that the brushing youngsters teeth are made more effective, resulting in better oral hygiene for infants and young children.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Jen-Feng Lee
  • Publication number: 20060037158
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an improved toothbrush and methods of brushing. Many experts have noted that dental hygiene can be improved by brushing for a specified amount of time and replacing worn and used toothbrush bristles at regular intervals. The present invention addresses these and other needs. By way of example, the improved toothbrush includes a head portion having bristles, one or more or which extend radially outwardly from a surface of the head, a handle including a timer element and a use counter, wherein the head is removably coupled to the handle such that the head and the handle are connected during use and such that the head can be removed from the handle and replaced as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Kevin Foley, James Eldon
  • Publication number: 20060037159
    Abstract: An aquarium cleaning mop for cleaning aquarium walls is equipped with a replaceable mophead and is adjustable angularly. It mainly includes a handle, an anchor seat and a presser plate. The handle has a pivot head on one end that has an arched gear rack to pivotally couple with the anchor seat and engage with a tooth of the anchor seat to adjust angle. The anchor seat also has guide tracks on two sides to couple with the presser plate which attaches to a mophead for cleaning. The cleaning mop thus formed enables users to adjust the angle of the handle and the mophead according to requirements to improve cleaning of the aquarium. Different types of mopheads may also be changed and replaced for cleaning the aquarium made of different materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Chiao-Ming Wang
  • Publication number: 20060037160
    Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to a toothbrush and methods of making and using it, wherein an elongated body has a bristle brush head portion and a handle portion. The body is composed of flexible material so that the handle portion can be grasped in the hand of the user, and the user can flex the elongated body into a substantially rigid position for teeth brushing purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Steven Kayser
  • Publication number: 20060037161
    Abstract: To provide a toothbrush having fully workable long bristles on the top end for easily brushing even a comparatively flat face without making a hardly hit part and without up-and-down movement influenced by recessions and projections of bristle bunches on the rear side, all of the bristle bunches on the rear side comprise mixed bristle bunches of long and short bristles, lines connecting respectively bristle top ends of the long and the short bristles are approximately parallel to a flat planting surface on the rear side, and an effective height of main bristles on the top end of the head is higher 1 mm or more than the height of the line connecting the bristle top ends of the short bristles on the rear end, and is higher than the height of the line connecting the bristle top ends of the long bristles on the rear end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Applicant: GC Corporation
    Inventors: Junichi Okada, Kumiko Yokonuma
  • Publication number: 20060037162
    Abstract: Disclosed is a modular paint brush comprising a plurality of custom molded and contoured handles that are readily detachable from brush elements using a slide connector with a button stop. Also included is a rotatable brush element. Rotation is achieved through a rotational connector disposed between the handle and the brush element. The rotation of the brush element is governed by a uniform rotation resistance designed into the rotational connector to serve the dual objectives of rotationality and maintaining rotational position of the brush element when the brush is in use after rotation of the brush element. Rapid detachability between the handle and brush element serves the multiple purposes of changing handle configuration with the same brush element for different work environments, changing brush widths for use with the same paint in different work environments, and changing paint colors with the same brush handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Anthony McRay
  • Publication number: 20060037163
    Abstract: The present invention is a combination carrying pouch and towel, the towel forming a cleaning device, and capable of being releasably secured to a golf bag or to the waist of a golfer or other user having need for access to towels and items for use in situ.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Steven Steinway
  • Publication number: 20060037164
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for cleaning the surfaces of a water pipe. The present invention includes a major unit and a minor unit that are magnetically coupled. The pipe cleaning apparatus cleans the surfaces of a water pipe as it is moved in conjunction (maintaining a magnetic connection) along the inside and outside surfaces of the pipe. The cleaning apparatus efficiently and effectively cleans the residue that builds up on the inside surfaces of a tobacco pipe, but also provides entertainment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Chad VanHulzen
  • Publication number: 20060037165
    Abstract: An oral cleaning device that can fit onto a human finger is provided. The oral cleaning device, or dental wipe, is at least partially made from an elastomeric material, such as an elastomeric nonwoven, so that the wipe can more aptly fit onto a finger. Furthermore, the wipe, in some instances, can possess a barrier that is liquid-impervious, but vapor-permeable so that the finger of a user is more comfortable during cleaning. Various additives can be applied to the wipe to aid in the cleaning process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Jason McDevitt, Michael Brunner, Jark Lau, Jaeho Kim, Kaiyuan Yang
  • Publication number: 20060037166
    Abstract: A cleaning device includes a soft sponge layer, having at least one rib or bead on its surface; an intermediate layer, which is harder than the sponge layer, a cloth layer, that is bonded to the intermediate layer, opposite to the sponge layer. The layers may be bonded to one another. Bonding the soft sponge layer to a harder intermediate layer already considerable improves upon the handling achieved by the sponge with the rib. Even when the sponge is completely soaked with the cleaning agent it remains stable in shape due to its firm bonding to the harder intermediate layer. The user may grasp the hard intermediate layer of the device so that the sponge will not be compressed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2004
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Helmut Kaltenegger
  • Publication number: 20060037167
    Abstract: The present model refers to an arrangement introduced in a blade, secured to an arm (2) of the wiper, wherein said blade (1) acts on the surface of a windshield (3), said blade (1) having a blade body (6) formed as a single piece by welding, bonding, fitting or coextrusion of two different profiled materials, resulting in a single body having a curved shape throughout its length to allow uniform distribution of the load applied by the arm (2) of the wiper. The blade (1) and the arm (2) are joined together by a sequential central support (10), made of metallic or plastic material, or, alternatively, by an enclosing central support (11), joining the blade body (6) through a metal vertebra (7). The blade body (6) has alternative constructive arrangements in its upper region, having a symmetric (16) or asymmetric (21) spoiler, as well as an alternative constructive arrangement with no spoiler at all, but only a convex bulging (26), leading to improved distribution of the airflow on the blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Marc Nacamuli
  • Publication number: 20060037168
    Abstract: A system for dry cleaning workpieces by removing solid and/or liquid particles adhereing thereto with a gaseous medium by means of suction. To this end, a suction mold encloses the workpieces on all sides while serving as a guiding device whose inner contour follows the outer contour of the workpiece. The cleaning medium flows to the gaps between the suction mold and the workpiece via feed slots and/or fee boreholes of the suction mold. Gaps, medium fee slots and/or medium feed boreholes are formed, arranged and dimensioned so that the flowing medium has a veloscity of greater than 20 m/s everywhere on the surface of the workiece, and the solid and/or liquid articles adhereing thereto are carried away.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventors: Dieter Hahmen, Harald Dahmen
  • Publication number: 20060037169
    Abstract: The invention provides food processing surface (40) cleaning system and related methods and uses. The system comprises: a vacuum source, a cleaning head (101), having walls (102, 106) defining a vacuum chamber (108) in communication via a vacuum line (150) with the vacuum source, the vacuum chamber (108) having an open vacuum mouth; and means for supplying a pressurised cleaning fluid via a fluid line (28) to one or more cleaning fluid outlets (26) within the vacuum chamber (108), the cleaning fluid outlets (26) being directed to spray cleaning fluid towards the vacuum mouth; whereby the vacuum mouth may in use be positioned near or against a food processing surface (40) to allow sprayed cleaning fluid to contact the surface and be removed under vacuum via the vacuum line (150). A preferred food processing surface (40) is a conveyor belt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Inventor: Nigel Sanders
  • Publication number: 20060037170
    Abstract: A self-propelling cleaner 1 performs dust removal processing in which a comb is brought close to a rotary brush with prescribed timing and dust is removed from the rotary brush. In the dust removal processing, the comb is slid in such a direction as to come closer to the brush, even dust that is stuck to the base portions of bristles of the rotary brush can be removed. A self-propelling cleaner is provided that is free of an event that it performs cleaning in a state that a large amount of dust is stuck to the rotary brush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Publication date: February 23, 2006
    Applicant: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akitaka Shimizu